Train crashes into MPD cruiser while officer chases after suspect on foot

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - A train crashed into a Memphis Police cruiser while an officer was chasing after a suspect on foot.

Officers responded to a prowler call at a railroad yard on Airways Blouveard around 10 p.m. Wednesday.

When officers arrived to the scene, they saw several men running from the rail carts.

The officer stopped the squad car on the railroad tracks at the intersection of Castalia Street and Person Avenue to cut one of the suspects off.

The officer exited the car and ran eastbound on the tracks.

The officer heard the train horn and saw the train approaching, so he headed back to his car to try to
move it.

The train crashed into the car, pushing it about 30 yards away from the tracks.

The police cruiser had significant damage to its passenger side door with smashed windows and the airbag deployed.

It is unclear if anyone was injured.

This is the second MPD cruiser this week to be damaged.

Tuesday, a cruiser was hit during a car chase that ended outside a Kroger in Poplar Plaza.

An officer was hurt in that crash, but they’re doing better.

MPD cruisers in crashes are a big talking point as we’re in budget season.

City council members say it could cost millions to repair or replace them.

“Look, Memphis is not known to have the best drivers, and a lot of our recruits are coming out of the Memphis school of driving, ok?” (but to) “If we have to fund an extra few hours for more tactical driving classes, I’m happy to do that too,” said Chase Carlisle Memphis City Council.

The Memphis Police Department recently proposed its budget for the 2025 fiscal year. It’s proposing $307 million.

Just $5.2 million was earmarked for the city shop where wrecked police cars are repaired.

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